System and method for evaluating and providing treatment to sports participants

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to a system and method for monitoring a physiological parameter of a player(s) from a larger group of players engaged in a contact sport. The system includes a helmet having a protective outer shell and an internal padding assembly, a portable signaling device, and a reporting unit positioned within the helmet. The reporting unit includes a sensor, a wireless transmitter and a control unit. The reporting unit has a flexible configuration to enable removable positioning within the helmet&#39;s internal padding assembly while maintaining overall comfort and fit of the helmet. The method involves monitoring impacts sustained by the specific player; computing impact results and comparing-impact results to at least one impact-related threshold; defining an alert event when an impact result surpasses a predetermined threshold value; sending an alert from the reporting unit to the signaling device; and providing an impact assessment protocol on the signaling device.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of co-pending U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 11/328,445, filed Jan. 9, 2006, which claims priority from U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 60/642,240, filed Jan. 7, 2005, andU.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/609,555, filed Sep. 13, 2004,and is a continuation-in-part (CIP) application of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 11/225,880, filed Sep. 13, 2005, which is acontinuation-in-part (CIP) application of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 10/997,832, filed Nov. 24, 2004, which is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/974,566, filed Oct. 10, 2001, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,826,509, which claims the benefit of Provisional ApplicationSer. No. 60/239,379, filed Oct. 11, 2000, all of which are incorporatedherein by reference and made a part hereof.

FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

A portion of the invention described herein was made in the course ofwork under grant number 1R43HD4074301 from the National Institute ofHealth. The U.S. Government may retain certain rights in this invention

TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention relates to a system for monitoring physiologicalparameters of players engaged in a sports activity. The inventionfurther relates to a method for evaluating and treating players when theparameter exceeds a predetermined level. The system measures, calculatesand records the parameters and then alerts trained personnel to applythe method to evaluate and treat players.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There is a concern in various contact sports, such as football andhockey, of brain injury due to impact to the head. During such physicalactivity, the head or other body part of the individual is oftensubjected to direct contact to the head which results in impact to theskull and brain of the individual as well as movement of the head orbody part itself.

Much remains unknown about the response of the brain to headaccelerations in the linear and rotational directions and even lessabout the correspondence between specific impact forces and injury,particularly with respect to injuries caused by repeated exposure toimpact forces of a lower level than those that result in a catastrophicinjury or fatality. Almost all of what is known is derived from animalstudies, studies of cadavers under specific directional and predictableforces (i.e. a head-on collision test), from crash dummies, from humanvolunteers in well-defined but limited impact exposures or from othersimplistic mechanical models. The conventional application of knownforces and/or measurement of forces applied to animals, cadavers, crashdummies, and human volunteers limit our knowledge of a relationshipbetween forces applied to a living human head and resultant severe andcatastrophic brain injury. These prior studies have limited value asthey typically relate to research in the automobile safety area.

The concern for sports-related injuries, particularly to the head, ishigher than ever. The Center for Disease Control and Preventionestimates that the incidence of sports-related mild traumatic braininjury (MTBI) approaches 300,000 annually in the United States.Approximately ⅓ of these injuries occur in football. MTBI is a majorsource of lost player time. Head injuries accounted for 13.3% of allfootball injuries to boys and 4.4% of all soccer injuries to both boysand girls in a large study of high school sports injuries. Approximately62,800 MTBI cases occur annually among high school varsity athletes,with football accounting for about 63% of cases. Concussions in hockeyaffect 10% of the athletes and make up 12%-14% of all injuries.

For example, a typical range of 4-6 concussions per year in a footballteam of 90 players (7%), and 6 per year from a hockey team with 28players (21%) is not uncommon. In rugby, concussion can affect as manyas 40% of players on a team each year. Concussions, particularly whenrepeated multiple times, significantly threaten the long-term health ofthe athlete. The health care costs associated with MTBI in sports areestimated to be in the hundreds of millions annually. The NationalCenter for Injury Prevention and Control considers sports-relatedtraumatic brain injury (mild and severe) an important public healthproblem because of the high incidence of these injuries, the relativeyouth of those being injured with possible long term disability, and thedanger of cumulative effects from repeat incidences.

Athletes who suffer head impacts during a practice or game situationoften find it difficult to assess the severity of the blow. Physicians,trainers, and coaches utilize standard neurological examinations andcognitive questioning to determine the relative severity of the impactand its effect on the athlete. Return to play decisions can be stronglyinfluenced by parents and coaches who want a star player back on thefield. Subsequent impacts following an initial concussion (MTBI) may be4-6 times more likely to result in a second, often more severe, braininjury. Significant advances in the diagnosis, categorization, andpost-injury management of concussions have led to the development of theStandardized Assessment of Concussion (SAC), which includes guidelinesfor on-field assessment and return to sport criteria. Yet there are noobjective biomechanical measures directly related to the impact used fordiagnostic purposes. Critical clinical decisions are often made on thefield immediately following the impact event, including whether anathlete can continue playing. Data from the actual event would provideadditional objective data to augment psychometric measures currentlyused by the on-site medical practitioner.

Brain injury following impact occurs at the tissue and cellular level,and is both complex and not fully understood. Increased brain tissuestrain, pressure waves, and pressure gradients within the skull havebeen linked with specific brain injury mechanisms. Linear and rotationalhead acceleration are input conditions during an impact. Both direct andinertial (i.e. whiplash) loading of the head result in linear androtational head acceleration. Head acceleration induces strain patternsin brain tissue, which may cause injury. There is significantcontroversy regarding what biomechanical information is required topredict the likelihood and severity of MTBI. Direct measurement of braindynamics during impact is extremely difficult in humans.

Head acceleration, on the other hand, can be more readily measured; itsrelationship to severe brain injury has been postulated and tested formore than 50 years. Both linear and rotational acceleration of the headplay an important role in producing diffuse injuries to the brain. Therelative contributions of these accelerations to specific injurymechanisms have not been conclusively established. The numerousmechanisms theorized to result in brain injury have been evaluated incadaveric and animal models, surrogate models, and computer models.Prospective clinical studies combining head impact biomechanics andclinical outcomes have been strongly urged. Validation of the varioushypotheses and models linking tissue and cellular level parameters withMTBI in sports requires field data that directly correlates specifickinematic inputs with post-impact trauma in humans.

In the prior art, conventional devices have employed testing approacheswhich do not relate to devices which can be worn by living human beings,such as the use of dummies. When studying impact with dummies, they aretypically secured to sleds with a known acceleration and impactvelocity. The dummy head then impacts with a target, and theaccelerations experienced by the head are recorded. Impact studies usingcadavers are performed for determining the impact forces and pressureswhich cause skull fractures and catastrophic brain injury.

There is a critical lack of information about what motions and impactforces lead to MTBI in sports. Previous research on football helmetimpacts in actual game situations yielded helmet impact magnitudes ashigh as 530 g's for a duration of 60 msec and >1000 g's for unknowndurations with no known MTBI. Accelerometers were held firmly to thehead via the suspension mechanism in the helmet and with Velcro straps.A recent study found maximum helmet accelerations of 120 g's and 150 g'sin a football player and hockey player, respectively. The disparity inmaximum values among these limited data sets demonstrates the need foradditional large-scale data collection.

Most prior art attempts relate to testing in a lab environment. However,the playing field is a more appropriate testing environment foraccumulating data regarding impact to the head. A limitation of theprior art involves practical application and widespread use ofmeasurement technologies that are size and cost effective forindividuals and teams. Therefore, there would be significant advantageto outfitting an entire playing team with a recording system formonitoring impact activities. This would assist in accumulating data ofall impacts to the head, independent of severity level, to study theoverall profile of head impacts for a given sport. Also, full-time headacceleration monitoring would also be of great assistance inunderstanding a particular impact or sequence of impacts to a player'shead over time that may have caused an injury and to better treat thatinjury medically.

Conventional devices do not include a system which immediately measures,calculates and records the magnitude and direction of an impact to theplayer's body part. In addition, conventional devices do not provide amethod or protocol for qualified sideline personnel to evaluate andtreat a player who sustains an impact to the body part. Further, noconventional devices are integrated such that a system prompts themethod for evaluating and treating a player who sustains such an impact.Conventional devices also lack a wireless device that can be utilized onan interactive basis to evaluate and treat a player who sustains such animpact.

The present invention is provided to solve the problems discussed aboveand other problems, and to provide advantages and aspects not providedby prior systems of this type. A full discussion of the features andadvantages of the present invention is deferred to the followingdetailed description, which proceeds with reference to the accompanyingdrawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a system for monitoring physiologicalparameters of players engaged in a sports activity. The inventionfurther relates to a method for evaluating and treating players when theparameter exceeds a predetermined level. The system measures, calculatesand records the parameters, and then alerts trained personnel to applythe method to evaluate and treat players. The system and method areespecially well suited for helmeted team sports where players aresusceptible to head impacts and injuries; for example, football, hockey,and lacrosse.

According to one aspect of the invention, the system includes multiplereporting units, a controller unit, a signaling device, a database, andsoftware that enables the various components of the system tocommunicate and interact. The reporting unit is configured for use witha variety of protective gear, such as a helmet, head band, leg guard, orshoulder pad. Because most teams include numerous players, in some casesexceeding one hundred players, each player has a recording unit thatcommunicates with the controller. Therefore, the recording unitscontinuously and collectively measure and transmit physiological data tothe controller for monitoring of the players. While a significantportion of the parameter measurement and monitoring occurs during thecourse of play, the system continues to measure relevant physiologicalparameters, such as the players' body temperature, when players are at areduced activity level on the sideline. The system may be configuredwithout the controller, whereby the reporting units interact andcommunicate directly with the signaling device.

According to another aspect of the invention, the system is integratedwith a method for evaluating and treating a player. The method includesa number of steps to be performed by qualified sideline personnel, suchas trainers, coaches, and/or medical staff, which typically are on ornear the sidelines of a sporting event or practice. The method utilizesa software package or interactive wizards that are loaded onto thesignaling device, such as a personal digital assistant (PDA). When aphysiological parameter exceeds a predetermined limit resulting in analert event, the controller sends a signal to the signaling deviceproviding relevant information about the alert event. For each alertevent, the signaling device displays the affected player's number andmedical history, the time of the event, and the physiological parameterto be evaluated. The interactive wizards provide testing baselines andan interactive protocol for guiding sideline personnel throughappropriate examination procedures. The signaling device records theresults and transmits the results to the controller and/or the databasefor use in further evaluation and treatment of the player. Therefore,whenever an alert event occurs and a potentially injured player isbrought to the sideline for evaluation, the signaling device displaysthe individual's medical and injury history, the results of previousevaluations and other pertinent medical data. Then, the signalingdevice, through the interactive wizards, prompts the sideline personnelto conduct the appropriate sideline examination, records the responses,compares the results to established baselines, and may prompt furthertesting. The sideline personnel, which may include certified trainersand/or medical staff, such as physicians, utilize the stored results toevaluate the severity of the player's condition and to make a return toplay (RTP) decision or a no return to play decision for the player.

Other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from thefollowing specification taken in conjunction with the followingdrawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

To understand the present invention, it will now be described by way ofexample, with reference to the accompanying exhibits in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a system and method of the presentinvention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic of the system of the invention;

FIG. 3 is a schematic of a reporting unit of the system of theinvention;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the reporting unit of the systeminstalled in a helmet;

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the system and method, showing three grades ofconcussions to be monitored and treated;

FIG. 6A is a flowchart of the method, showing a first portion of theevaluation and treatment sequence for a mild grade concussion;

FIG. 6B is a flowchart of the method, showing a second portion of theevaluation and treatment sequence for a mild grade concussion;

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the method, showing the evaluation andtreatment sequence for a moderate grade concussion;

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of the method, showing the evaluation andtreatment sequence for a severe grade concussion;

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of the method, showing the evaluation andtreatment sequence for off-field evaluation and a mild grade concussion;and,

FIG. 10 is a flowchart of the method, showing the evaluation andtreatment sequence for a return to play (RTP) decision where the playerhas sustained his first mild or moderate concussion of the season.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While this invention is susceptible of embodiments in many differentforms, there are shown in the drawings and will herein be described indetail preferred embodiments of the invention with the understandingthat the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification ofthe principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the broadaspect of the invention to the embodiments illustrated.

FIGS. 1-10 depict a multi-component system 10 for actively monitoringphysiological parameters of numerous players engaged in a sportingactivity, wherein the system 10 interacts with the method for evaluatingand treating players based upon the results of the monitored parameter.In one embodiment, the players' parameter data is transmitted, via awired or wireless connection, to a controller for calculation and thento a signaling device for use by trained personnel to employ the methodfor player evaluation and treatment. The system 10 may be configured tomeasure and calculate the acceleration of a body part (e.g., the head)of players while engaged in physical activity, such as during play of acontact sport. In another embodiment, the system 10 is designed tomeasure and calculate each player's body temperature during play. In yetanother embodiment, the system 10 is designed to measure and calculateboth the acceleration of each player's body part and the player'stemperature during play. When a calculated parameter result approachesor exceeds a predetermined level, the qualified sideline personnelutilize the method of the present invention to evaluate and treat theplayer(s) in question. Since most contact sports involve multi-playerteams, the system 10 simultaneously measures, records and transmits thedata on the physiological parameters for all players on the teamthroughout the course of play, including a game or practice. The system10 is especially well suited for helmeted team sports where players aresusceptible to head impacts and injuries; for example, football, hockey,and lacrosse. The system 10 could also be employed in sports wherehelmets are not traditionally worn; for example, rugby or soccer.

The system 10 is generally comprised of multiple reporting units 20, acontroller unit 40, a signaling device 60, a database 80, and software90 that enables the various components of the system 10 to communicateand interact. While the system 10 is described below in the context of ahelmeted team sport, the system 10 can be utilized in connection withother sporting activities that do not require a helmet, such as socceror rugby. Consequently, the system 10 can be configured for use withother protective gear, such as a head band, leg guard, or shoulder pad.Because a football team includes numerous players, in some casesexceeding one hundred players, each player has a recording unit 20 thatcommunicates with the controller 40. Therefore, the recording units 20continuously and collectively measure and transmit physiological data tothe controller for monitoring of the players. While a significantportion of the parameter measurement and monitoring occurs during thecourse of play, the system 10 continues to measure relevantphysiological parameters, such as the players' body temperature, whenplayers are at a reduced activity level on the sideline.

The reporting unit 20 automatically and continuously measures andrecords the player's physiological parameters and transmits dataregarding the parameter to the controller 40. When the system 10 isconfigured for use with a football team, the wearable reporting unit 20is adapted for use either within each player's helmet or protectivegear, such as shoulder pads. Referring to FIGS. 1-4 and as explained inco-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/225,880 which isincorporated herein by reference, the reporting unit 20 includes asensor assembly defined by a plurality of sensors 22 that measures theplayer's physiological parameter and a control unit 24, wherein thesensors 22 are operably connected to the control unit 24. As shown inFIG. 3, a wire lead 26 electrically connects each sensor 22 with thecontrol unit 24. The control unit 24 can include a signal conditioner 24a, a filter 24 b, a microcontroller 24 c (or microprocessor), atelemetry element 24 d, an encoder 24 e, and a power source 24 f. Whilethe encoder 24 e is shown as separate from the telemetry element 24 d,the encoder 24 e can be integrated within the telemetry element 24 d.The sensors 22 are calibrated to measure the player's physiologicalcondition or parameter and then generate input data regarding eachparameter. The control unit 24 processes the input data, includingfiltering and conditioning as necessary, and then converts the data tosignals. Next, the encoder 24 e of the control unit 24 encodes thesignals with a unique identifier, and the telemetry element 24 dwirelessly transmits (as represented by the lightning bolts in FIG. 1)the encoded signals to the remote controller 40 which recognizes theencoded signals for further processing and calculation. The telemetryelement 24 d can be a transceiver, or a separate receiver andtransmitter. The power source 24 f can be a rechargeable battery or adisposable battery. In another embodiment of the system 10, theparameter data transmitted from the reporters 20 to the controller 40can be encrypted to increase the security of the underlying data. Inthis configuration, the system 10 can include a cipher for performingencryption and decryption, and a key to parameterize the cipher. Thereporting unit 20 can transmit parameter data during the course of playor between plays via a wireless transmitter to the controller 40.Alternatively, the reporting unit 20 transmits parameter data duringprolonged stoppages of play, such as intermission or half-time, or afterthe completion of play or the game via a wired connection to thecontroller 40. In the wired configuration, the reporting unit 20transfers parameter data with a wired protocol, such as I2C, SPI, USB,RS 232 or others. Due to the wired connection between the reporting unit20 and the controller 40, the reporting unit 20 need not include thetelemetry element 24 d and/or the encoder 24 e.

The type of sensors 22 within the reporting unit 20 depends upon theplayer's physiological data to be measured, transmitted and monitored.For example, when the reporting unit 20 is configured to measureacceleration of the body part, the sensors 22 are single-axisaccelerometers, multi-axis accelerometers, or a combination of both. Asanother example, to measure the player's temperature, each reportingunit 20 includes at least one sensor 22 such as a thermistor, whichcomprises resistive circuit components having a high negativetemperature coefficient of resistance so that the resistance decreasesas the temperature increases. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 22is a thermal ribbon sensor or a band-gap type integrated circuit sensor.To measure both the acceleration and temperature of the player's bodypart, the sensors 22 can be a combination of accelerometers andthermistors operably connected to the control unit 24. Where the system10 is configured for use with a football team to measure and monitorhead acceleration and player body temperature, the sensors 22 areaccelerometers and thermistors that are arrayed in an in-helmet unit 28(see FIG. 4) for each player. To measure other physiological parameters,such as the player's heart rate and blood pressure, the sensors 22 aremicro electromechanical system (MEMS) type sensors that use auscultatoryand/or oscillometric measurement techniques. In another embodiment, thesensors 22 may include low acceleration (low G) accelerometers that areconfigured to measure small movements of the player's head consistentwith balance problems. The system 10 includes an algorithm thatcalculates and observes a player's balance between plays or duringextended stoppages in play, such as when a penalty is being assessed ora timeout. In this manner, the player's physiological parameter can bemeasured on the field of play, instead of the sideline. When a playerassumes the ready position prior to the commencement of the play, forexample a three-point stance, the low G accelerometers and the algorithmwould detect player movements indicative of balance problems and aconcussion.

As shown in FIG. 4, the in-helmet unit 28 includes a flexible band 30that houses the sensors 22 and the control unit 24. The flexible band 30is received within the internal padding assembly of the helmet 32,wherein the sensors 22 are positioned about the player's skull. In thismanner, the in-helmet unit 28 is removably received within the helmet 32to allow for testing and maintenance, including recharging of thebattery power source. In one embodiment where the system 10 measures theacceleration of the player's head, the band 30 is dimensioned such thatthe sensitive axis of each accelerometer sensor 22 is orthogonal to theouter surface of the player's head. In another embodiment, theaccelerometer sensors 22 are not positioned orthogonal to the headsurface. Depending upon the other design parameters of the system 10,the accelerometer sensors 22 can be positioned either orthogonally ornon-orthogonally to each other. While FIG. 3 depicts three sensors 22within the reporting unit 20, the precise number of sensors 22 varieswith the design of the system 10. In the embodiment where the system 10measures the player's temperature, the temperature sensor 22 can beplaced within the forehead pad of the helmet 32 or at other locations inprotective equipment, such as shoulder pads, knee pads, etc.

In operation, the reporting unit sensors 22 measure the physiologicalparameter(s) and generate signals in response to the measured parametervalue. The sensors 22 can be configured to continuously generate signalsin response to the parameter value, or generate signals only when theparameter value reaches or exceeds a threshold level. For example, thesensors 22 can be single-axis accelerometers that measure headacceleration but only generate signals when the sensed head accelerationsurpasses 10 G's. The control unit 24 processes the data signals andtransmits them to the sideline controller 40 for calculation andmonitoring of the player's physiological condition. As part of theprocessing step, the control unit 24 conditions and filters the signals,as necessary, and then encodes the signals with a unique playeridentifier for transmission to the controller 40. To supportsimultaneous transmissions from multiple reporters 20 to the correctcontroller 40, the signals sent from each control unit 24 can be dividedwith time division multiple access (TDMA), code division multiple access(CDMA), or frequency division multiple access (FDMA) technology.Encoding the signals with a unique identifier enables the controller 40to properly multiplex and decode information from the various reporters20 transmitting data. Accordingly, the system 10 simultaneously measuresand transmits encoded data from a number of reporters 20, and then thecontroller 40 catalogs either the encoded data signal for furthercalculation, or the resultant calculation based upon the relationshipbetween the reporter 20 and the player. Regardless of when thecataloging occurs, the controller 40 organizes each player's calculatedparameter result for further analysis and/or monitoring. In oneembodiment, an operator of the system 10 defines the relationship orassociation between the reporter 20 and the player when the player isissued a helmet or protective gear having the reporter 20. With the aidof the signaling device 60, the sideline personnel utilizing the system10 can then monitor the physiological condition of select players basedupon the cataloging of the calculated parameter result.

Generally, the controller 40 receives the data measured and transmittedby the reporting units 20 and processes the data for meaningful analysisor use. The sideline controller 40 is comprised of a portablemicroprocessor 42 (e.g., a laptop or portable computer), including adisplay screen, and a telemetry element 44 operably connected to themicroprocessor 42. The controller 40 is a mobile apparatus that can betransported in a case 46. Referring to FIG. 2, the telemetry element 44includes an antenna 48, a transmitter 50, a receiver 52 (or a combinedtransceiver), and an encoder 54. Consistent with that explained above,the telemetry element 44 decodes the encoded signals sent from eachreporter 20, and the controller 40, primarily the microprocessor 42,performs the requisite calculation and then multiplexes the resultsaccording to the player identifier provided by the reporting unit 20. Inthis manner, the controller 40 recognizes the identifier provided byeach reporter 20 and organizes the results for each player having areporter 20. Alternatively, the controller 40 catalogs the encodedsignals, the telemetry element 44 decodes the signals allowing themicroprocessor 42 to perform the requisite calculation, and then thecontroller 40 multiplexes the results according to the playeridentifier. The controller 40 has a local memory device for storing datareceived from the reporting units 20 and the subsequently calculatedresults. Preferably, the memory device of the controller 40 is capableof storing information compiled over an entire season, so if necessary,sideline personnel and/or medical staff can retrieve historical playerdata when needed. In preferred embodiments, the controller 40 isequipped with software 92 that includes team management information(e.g., complete roster list of players, position of players,identification of active players, etc.) and daily exposure information(e.g., date, game vs. practice, conditions, etc.). The controller 40also is used to synchronize local data (e.g., one team or historicaldata) with the centralized database 80.

In operation, the controller 40 receives the encoded signal from thereporting unit 20 for the measured physiological parameter (the“Measured Parameter”) and processes the data within the signal tocalculate a result for the parameter (the “Parameter Result”). When theParameter Result reaches or exceeds a predetermined parameter level(hereinafter the “Alert Event”), the controller 40 wirelesslycommunicates with the signaling device 60, via the transmitter 50,thereby alerting the sideline personnel bearing the device 60 of theAlert Event. For each Alert Event, the controller 40 displays theaffected player's identity, for example by name or jersey number, theMeasured Parameter, and the time of the Alert Event. However, theplayer's identity can be protected by use of a unique player identifier,which may be encoded or encrypted. When the Parameter Result falls belowthe level and an Alert Event does not occur, the controller 40 continuesto receive data from the reporters 20 and performs the requisitecalculations. Further, while an Alert Event arises from one reporter 20,the controller 40 continues to receive and process data from the otherreporters 20. Thus, the system 10 provides active monitoring for allplayers having a reporter 20. The time stamp provided by the controller40 allows sideline personnel and medical staff to correlate thecalculated parameter to actual videotape of the sporting event that ledto the Alert Event. Once an Alert Event has occurred, the controller 40sends a signal to the signaling device 60 that alerts the sidelinepersonnel to employ the method 100 for evaluating and treating theplayer in question, as explained below. The player in question isquickly identified by the controller 40 due to the unique identifierprovided by the reporting units 20 and the subsequent recognition of theidentifier and the multiplexing performed by the controller 40. In thismanner, the sideline personnel can efficiently evaluate the player inquestion from among the many players comprising the team.

In an embodiment of the system 10 where the Measured Parameter is playerhead acceleration, when an Alert Event occurs, the controller 40calculates the point of impact on the player's body part, the cumulativeimpacts sustained by the player during the current monitoring session,and then graphs the magnitude and duration of recent impacts to theplayer and/or the body part. As part of this calculation, the controller40 uses an algorithm to estimate the magnitude of the impact measured bythe sensors 22, wherein the algorithm comports with the disclosure ofco-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/997,832. As an example,when the system 10 calculates a Parameter Result of 80 g's of headacceleration, which exceeds a predetermined threshold of 50 g's, anAlert Event results wherein the controller 40 sends a signal to thesignaling device 60 providing information to sideline personnel tocommence the method 100 for evaluating and treating the player thatsustained the Alert Event.

In the embodiment where the system 10 monitors each player's bodytemperature, the controller 40 receives data from the reporting units 20and then calculates each player's body surface temperature, the rate oftemperature increase and/or decrease versus a selected time interval. Inaddition to the temperature sensor 22 in the reporting unit 20, thecontroller 40 can include an additional temperature and/or humiditysensor to measure ambient conditions and use the resulting data forcorrection purposes. When the system 10 is configured for player bodytemperature monitoring in helmeted team sports, the reporting unit 20can be positioned within the helmet 32 or within other protectiveequipment worn by each player, such as a shoulder pad assembly. Thecontroller 40 receives the temperature data from each reporter 20 andthen applies an algorithm to calculate the player's body surfacetemperature, the rate of temperature increase and/or decrease, and othertemperature-based parameters that aid in the evaluation of playerthermal management.

As explained above, the signaling device 60 communicates with thecontroller 40 and provides notice of an Alert Event to the sidelinepersonnel. Preferably, the signaling device 60 is a portable electronicdevice, such as a pager 62, a personal digital assistant (PDA) 64, acellular telephone, or other electronic device that is capable ofreceiving data and displaying results transmitted by the controller 40.Typically, the device 60 is worn or held by sideline personnel,including the training staff, medical personnel and/or coaches.Depending upon the parameters of the system 10, the signaling device 60could vibrate or sound an audio alarm when a suspect event is measuredand recorded, and inform the wearer of the device 60 of the Alert Event.Regarding the nature of the Alert Event, the device 60 can advise of:the identity of player(s) affected; the nature of the suspect event,including an elevated head acceleration due to impact or a change in aplayer's physiological status such as elevated body temperature; and thetime of the incident.

As part of the method 100 of evaluating and treating players thatexperience an Alert Event, the signaling device 60 is programmed withinteractive software 95 that assures best practices are followed in thetreatment and documentation of injuries, such as mild traumatic braininjuries (MTBI). The interactive software 95 may include a bundle ofteam management programs which enables the signaling device 60 to storeall team data, including medical histories and testing baselines. Thesoftware 95 also provides the signaling device 60 with an activeresponse protocol for guiding sideline personnel through appropriateexamination procedures and recording the results. For example, when anAlert Event occurs and the relevant player is brought to the sidelinefor evaluation, the signaling device 60 can display the individual'shead-injury history, the results of previous evaluations and otherpertinent medical data. With the assistance of the software 95, thesignaling device 60 prompts the medical staff member to conduct theappropriate sideline examination, records the responses, compares theresults to established baselines and prompts either further testing or aplay/no-play decision. The software 95 further includes a bundle of teammanagement tools that includes a roster program which contains all thebasic information about each individual player: e.g., contactinformation, which sports they play (including position and jerseynumber), emergency information, relevant sizes, equipment issues andavailability to play. Information can be stored and sorted in a varietyof ways, such as by team, person item and size. The software 95 may alsoinclude a session manager program that allows the coaching staff todocument incidents as they occur during a practice or a game. Theappropriate information about the team, players and conditions isentered at the beginning of each session. Then, as injuries occur, thesoftware 95 provides a template for recording injury data on a perplayer basis. The data and results stored on the device 60 can beuploaded to the database 80 wherein authorized users can access same forteam management and player evaluation functions.

In another embodiment of the inventive system 10 and method, thecontroller 40 is omitted and the reporting units 20 interact andcommunicate directly with the signaling device 60. In one version ofthis embodiment, the reporting units 20 measure the physiologicalparameters as explained above and perform the related calculationswithin their control unit 24. All of the calculated results are thentransmitted from each reporting unit 20 to the signaling device 60, forexample the PDA 64, for recordation and monitoring. The device 60 sortsand multiplexes the results while looking for an Alert Event. When thedevice 60 finds an Alert Event, the device 60 alerts the sidelinepersonnel consistent with that explained above. Alternatively, eachreporting unit 20 performs the necessary calculations to arrive at aParameter Result and then transmits only those results that amount to anAlert Event. In this manner, the reporting unit 20 calculates andtransmits the Alert Event whereby the device 60 receives signals from areduced number of reporters 20—only those transmitting an Alert Event.In another version of this embodiment, the reporting units 20 measurethe physiological parameters and transmit the data signals to the device60, for example the PDA 64, wherein the device 60 performs the relatedcalculations to arrive at the Parameter Result. When the ParameterResult amounts to an Alert Event, the device 60 alerts the sidelinepersonnel to evaluate the player(s) consistent with that explainedabove.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the system 10 includes at least one database80 configured to store and provide access to parameter data measured bythe reporting devices 20 and calculated data from the controller 40 andthe signaling device 60. For example, the database 80 serves as a teamadministrator database for the athletic department of a college oruniversity, wherein the database 80 functions as an interactiveclearinghouse or warehouse for all athlete information shared amongvarious departments or sports. The database 80 is internet enabled toprovide remote access to authorized users, including coaches, trainers,equipment managers and administrators, which allows the users to keepabreast of changes in players' status. The database 80 also provides ahost of administrative and management tools for the team andadministrative staff. The database 80 can be a component of thecollege's broader computer network system and interact with otherdatabases associated with the system 10. On a smaller level, such asthat found in high schools, the database 80 can be located on thesideline controller 40, wherein personnel associated with the highschool have access, either direct or remote.

As briefly explained above, the system 10 is integrated with a method100 for evaluating and treating a player. The method 100 includes anumber of steps to be performed by qualified sideline personnel, such astrainers, coaches, and/or medical staff, which typically are on or nearthe sidelines of a sporting event or practice. The method 100 can beinitiated in multiple ways: first, when the system 10 detects an AlertEvent; second, when qualified sideline personnel observe an elevatedphysiological parameter or signs thereof, such as an impact to a playeror signs that the player sustained an impact; and third, when a playerself-reports elevated physiological parameters, such as an impact or theeffects of an impact. Regarding the first way to initiate the method 100and consistent with that explained above, the Alert Event is conveyed tothe sideline personnel via the controller 40 and/or the signaling device60. One of skill in the art recognizes that the last two ways toinitiate the method 100 are subjective and can be based upon thesideline personnel's experience and level of training, as well as theplayer's level of experience and cooperation.

In one embodiment, the method 100 utilizes a software package orinteractive wizards 95 that are loaded onto the signaling device 60,such as the PDA 64. As discussed above, when an Alert Event is detected,the controller 40 sends a signal to the signaling device 60 providingrelevant information about the Alert Event. For each Alert Event, thesignaling device 60 displays the affected player's number and medicalhistory, the time of the event, and the physiological parameter to beevaluated. In the situation where a head impact results in an AlertEvent, the signaling device 60 displays the point of impact on theplayer's head, the cumulative impacts sustained by the player during thecurrent sporting session, and graphs the magnitude and duration ofrecent impacts to the player. The interactive wizards 95 provide testingbaselines and an interactive protocol for guiding sideline personnelthrough appropriate examination procedures. The signaling device 60records the results and transmits the results to the controller 40and/or the database 80 for use in further evaluation and treatment ofthe player. Therefore, whenever an Alert Event occurs and a potentiallyinjured player is brought to the sideline for evaluation, the signalingdevice 60 displays the individual's medical and injury history, theresults of previous evaluations and other pertinent medical data. Then,the signaling device 60, through the interactive wizards 95, prompts thesideline personnel to conduct the appropriate sideline examination,records the responses, compares the results to established baselines,and may prompt further testing. The sideline personnel, which mayinclude certified trainers and/or medical staff, such as physicians,utilize the stored results to evaluate the severity of the player'scondition and to make a return to play (RTP) decision or a no return toplay decision for the player. In that latter situation, the player isprevented from playing for a period of time while further observationand testing may be conducted. Additionally, the signaling device 60 canbe programmed with wizard programs 95 that assure best practices arefollowed in the treatment and documentation of mild traumatic braininjuries (MTBI) and elevated body temperatures.

In another embodiment where the reporting units 20 and the controller 40are omitted from the system 10, the signaling device 60 is utilized toevaluate and treat the player after the player self-reports an elevatedphysiological parameters, or qualified sideline personnel observe anelevated physiological parameters. In this manner, the number ofcomponents within the system 10 is reduced; however, the method 100 ofevaluating and treating a player remains constant through the use of thesignaling device 60 and its interactive wizards. Therefore, the device60 utilizes the interactive wizard programs 95 to provide testingbaselines and an interactive protocol for guiding sideline personnelthrough the appropriate examination procedures.

The wireless signaling device 60 is designed to operate as aninteractive sideline assistant, providing and receiving necessaryequipment and medical information for the evaluation and treatment ofplayers. Thus, the signaling device 60 features wizards, which areintegrated, interactive software programs 95 that provideinjury/physiological parameter assessment and team management tools. Inone embodiment, the wizard software package 95 includes a roster programwhich contains all the basic information about each individual player:e.g., contact information, which sports they play (including positionand jersey number), emergency information, relevant sizes, equipmentissues and availability to play. Information can be stored and sorted ina variety of ways, such as by team, person, item and size. The softwareprogram 95 includes linked features, such that sideline personnel canaccess the player's medical history and risk factors by selecting theplayer's name, identifier or uniform number. After an Alert Event hasoccurred and to assist the sideline personnel with conducting theevaluation and treatment method 100, the wizard software 95 provideson-field steps, off-field steps and return-to-play sequences. As part ofthe method 100, the sideline personnel are prompted by the wizardsoftware 95 to perform the steps and sequences to evaluate and treat theplayer(s) in question. The signaling device 60 software also includes asession manager program that allows the coaching staff to documentincidents as they occur during a practice or a game. The appropriateinformation about the team, players and conditions (e.g., weather andfield conditions, such as artificial turf or natural grass) is enteredat the beginning of each session. Then, as injuries or suspectedinjuries occur, the wizard programs 95 provide a template for recordinginjury data by player.

The system 10 includes both on-field aspects and off-field communicationaspects that enable the components of the system 10 to communicate andperform the method 100. Regarding the on-field communication aspects,the reporting units 20, the sideline controller 40, the signalingdevice(s) 60 and the database 80 communicate to provide event data,historical data, and impact data whereby the sideline personnel canevaluate and treat a player that sustains an Alert Event. Regarding theoff-field communication aspects, the medical staff, the coaching staff,and/or the training staff can access data and information hosted by thedatabase 80 to manage the diagnosis and/or treatment of various players.For example, the medical staff can log onto a management softwareprogram 98 hosted by the database 80 to review a player's medicalhistory and course of treatment as part of the follow-up evaluation andthe RTP decision. The internet-based software program 98 used foroff-field aspects is secure such that only authorized users can accessplayer data, medical histories, and treatment information.

FIGS. 5-10 provide a flowchart of the method 100 of evaluating andtreating a player that sustains an Alert Event based upon an impact tothe head resulting in a possible concussion. The method 100 commences inone of three ways: first, when the system 10 detects an Alert Event andconveys it to the sideline personnel, via the sideline controller 40 orthe signaling device 60; second, when the sideline personnel observe asignificant impact to a player or signs that the player sustained asignificant impact; and third, when a player self-reports an impact orthe effects of an impact.

The first step or component of the method 100 involves an on-fieldinquiry 200 by the sideline personnel to ascertain the severity of theimpact. As part of the on-field inquiry 200, the sideline personnelshould determine whether the player has suffered a loss of consciousness(LOC) and the time duration of the LOC. Provided the player has notsuffered a neck injury, experiences bleeding, or displays other serioussymptoms, the sideline personnel utilizes the signaling device 60 topresumably grade the concussion as mild, moderate or severe. Due to thefact that the preliminary grading of the concussion into one of threecategories is difficult, the concussion grading is subject to revisionbased upon further observation and the player recovery. Once thesuspected concussion is preliminarily assessed or graded into one ofthese three categories, distinct treatment and evaluation protocols orsequences are provided by the method 100 for the sideline personnel tofollow. Therefore, once the level of the concussion is determined, themethod 100 provides an interactive protocol for evaluation and treatmentof the player that utilizes many evaluation tools, including themini-battery, the player history, the player risk factors, and thesideline battery. The steps within the protocol enable the sidelinepersonnel to determine whether the player should, among other things, becleared for a return to play (RTP), further evaluated, or held out ofadditional play.

Referring to FIG. 6A and assuming the on-field inquiry 200 results inthe presumption of a mild grade concussion, the signaling device 60prompts the sideline personnel to administer a mini-battery of questions602. A mild grade concussion may be presumed if the player does not loseconsciousness (LOC=0). The mini-battery 602 includes questions directedto the player's physical condition, (headache, nausea, vision), mentalstatus (memory) and/or coordination. The response to each batteryquestion is recorded by the signaling device 60, and the battery resultis calculated by the device 60. If the player passes the mini-batteryassessment 602, the sideline personnel consult the player's medicalhistory 606 and conduct further observation 608. If the medical history606 and the subsequent observation 608 provide positive results, thesideline personnel can clear the player for a return to play 612. Theobservation 608, often conducted on the field or sidelines, involves anassessment of whether the player has a speech disturbance, signs oftrauma, respiratory troubles, recollection of the impact or hit,coordination or balance problems, and evaluation of the player's eyesfor size, light sensitivity and movement. If the medical history 606 andthe subsequent observation 608 provide negative results, the device 60issues a no return to play (No RTP) warning 614 and further evaluation616 is scheduled by the signaling device 60 for at least the next 48hours. If the medical history 606 and the subsequent observation 608 areinconclusive, the sideline personnel can re-perform 610 the mini-battery602 as step 610 and proceed as explained.

If the player fails the mini-battery 602, the player's medical historyand/or risk factor information, including injury and treatmenthistories, are displayed on the signaling device 60. In most instances,the sideline personnel determine whether the player has passed or failedthe mini-battery 602. However, depending upon the sophistication of thewizard program 95, the device 60 can require confirmation of theconclusion reached by the sideline personnel, or in some cases, bypassthe conclusion reached by the sideline personnel, wherein the trainingand experience of the sideline personnel is taken into account by thewizard program 95. Similarly, the player's risk factors can also bedisplayed on the signaling device 60 as part of the mini-battery 602. Ifthe review of the medical history and risk factors 620 is negative, theplayer is restricted from further play until further observation 626 anda re-check 630 are conducted. In the event the observation 626 and there-check 630 are positive, the player can be returned to play 632 andthe signaling device 60 schedules further evaluation 634 over at leastthe next 48 hours. In the event the observation 626 is negative, thedevice 60 issues a no return to play warning 636, and the signalingdevice 60 again schedules further evaluation 638 over at least the next48 hours.

If the review of the medical history and risk factors 620 provides asatisfactory observation 626 result, a more comprehensive sidelinebattery of tests 640 is performed on the player (see FIG. 6B). Thesideline battery 640 involves a number of steps, including thecomprehensive observation of the player's physical condition andapplication of standardized concussion criteria, such as theStandardized Assessment of Concussion (SAC) questions. The signalingdevice 60 prompts the sideline personnel throughout the battery 640 anddisplays and records the result of the battery 640. In the event thesideline personnel logged into the signaling device 60 is not qualifiedto run the battery 640, due to a lack of training or experience, thedevice 640 provides an alert advising of such. If the battery 640results are positive, an observation 644 similar to observation 608 isconducted. If the observation 644 proves satisfactory, the sidelinepersonnel can clear the player for a return to play 646 with furtherevaluation 648 to be scheduled by the signaling device 60. If theobservation 644 provides negative results, the device 60 provides awarning recommending that the player not be permitted to return to play(No RTP) 650 and further evaluation 652 is scheduled by the signalingdevice 60 for at least the next 48 hours. In the event the sidelinepersonnel ignore the no return to play warnings provided by the device60, the device 60 may request and record confirmation of the sidelinepersonnel's decision. The device 60 can detect the sideline personnel'sdecision to ignore the warning by monitoring whether the sidelinepersonnel attempts to return a player to the active roster list on thewizard program 95.

If the battery 640 results are negative, then the player is retestedwith the sideline battery 640 as step 656. In the event the player failsthe battery retest 656, the device 60 provides a recommendation that theplayer not be permitted to return to play 674 and further evaluation 676is scheduled by the signaling device 60 for at least the next 48 hours.In the event the player passes the battery retest 656, the sidelinepersonnel are instructed by the signaling device 60 to monitor theplayer and verify that the player is asymptomatic or not exhibitingconcussion symptoms 660 for a period of time after the impact, such astwenty minutes. The asymptomatic time period varies with a number offactors, including but not limited to the nature of the physiologicalparameter to be measured by the system 10, the age and experience of theplayer, the medical history of the player, the presence or absence ofrisk factors, and the type and intensity of the sporting activity, andthe ambient conditions (e.g., temperature, humidity and heat index). Thesideline personnel continue to observe 662 the player, wherein theplayer can return to play 664 if the observation 662 is positive andfurther evaluation 666 is scheduled by the signaling device 60. Thedevice 60 warns the sideline personnel that the player should not bepermitted to return to play 668 if the observation 662 is negative andthe signaling device 60 schedules further evaluations 670.

As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the signaling device 60 utilizes the wizardsoftware 95 to guide the sideline personnel through the steps of themethod 10 to evaluate and treat a mild concussion with the use ofprompts and instructions. The device 60 stores the data and results ofthe tests administered by the sideline personnel for subsequent reviewand evaluation, including that conducted by medical personnel. Also, thedevice can transfer or upload the test data and results to thecontroller 40 and/or database 80 for subsequent review and evaluation.In this manner, the test data and results are integrated into theplayer's medical history such that the data and results are available tothe sideline personnel when the method 10 is subsequently performed, forexample in a later game during the season or the next year. Accordingly,the system 10 and the method 100 provide an interactive platform forimpact monitoring, evaluation and treatment, wherein earlier testresults and data are accessible for the evaluation and treatment of acurrent condition.

Referring to FIG. 7 and assuming the on-field inquiry 200 results in thepresumption of a moderate grade concussion, the signaling device 60provides the player's medical history and risk factors 705 forconsideration by the sideline personnel. A moderate grade concussion maybe presumed if the player loses consciousness for less than one minute(LOC<1 minute). After the history and risk factors 705 are considered,the device 60 graphically provides a list of special precautions 710 forthe sideline personnel to consider in light of the moderate gradeconcussion. These precautions 710 are consistent with the standardizedwarnings for the physiological parameter measured, such as the SACstandards, and may include instructions to observe the physical and/ormental status of the player for an interval of time. Next, the device 60prompts the sideline personnel to conduct the sideline battery 715, asexplained above (see battery 640 above). If the player fails the battery715, the player is not permitted to return to play 760 and furtherevaluation 765 is scheduled by the signaling device 60 for at least thenext 48 hours. If the player passes the battery 715, the sidelinepersonnel are instructed by the signaling device 60 to monitor theplayer and verify that the player is asymptomatic or not exhibitingconcussion symptoms 725 for a period of time after the impact, such astwenty minutes. The sideline personnel continue to observe 730 theplayer, wherein the player can return to play 735 if the observation 730is positive and further evaluation 740 is scheduled by the signalingdevice 60 for at least the next 48 hours. The device 60 issues a warningrecommending that the player should not be permitted to return to play745 if the observation 730 is negative and the signaling device 60schedules further evaluations 750.

Referring to FIG. 8 and assuming the on-field inquiry 200 results in thepresumption of a severe grade concussion, the signaling device 60provides the player's medical history and risk factors 805 forconsideration by the sideline personnel. A severe grade concussion maybe presumed if the player loses consciousness for greater than or equalto one minute (LOC>1 minute). After the player's history and riskfactors 805 are considered, the device 60 graphically provides a list ofspecial precautions 825 for the sideline personnel to consider in lightof the moderate grade concussion. These precautions are consistent withthe standardized warnings for the physiological parameter measured, suchas the SAC standards, and may include instructions to observe thephysical and/or mental status of the player for an interval of time.Depending upon the player's risk factors 805 and the consideration ofthe special precautions 825, the device 60 advises with a warning thatthe player should not be not permitted to return to play 810 and furtherevaluation 820 is scheduled by the signaling device 60. In addition, thedevice 60 can provide a data output 815 that reports on the player'scondition via the sideline unit 40 or a remote printer. Alternatively,if the player's vital signs do not stabilize and/or the playerexperiences difficulty remaining conscious, the device 60 instructs thesideline personnel to seek immediate emergency medical treatment (EMT)830 for the player.

As mentioned above, the method 100 has both on-field and off-fieldcommunication aspects. Whereas FIGS. 5-8 primarily concerned on-fieldcommunication aspects, FIG. 9 outlines the off-field communicationprotocol for a mild concussion. Once the mild grade concussion 900 ispresumed, further evaluation 905 and a same day, post-event recheck areperformed 910. Next, a post game test battery 915 is performed, whereinthe battery 915 involves assessing the player's condition with thestandardized tests, such as the post-concussion symptoms score (PCSS)and the presence of post traumatic amnesia (PTA). If the player failsthe battery 915, further decision and/or observation 930 is required bythe device 60 with elevation to a physician 935 if the player'scondition does not improve. If the player passes the battery 915, thedevice 60 instructs the sideline personnel to perform a second battery945 again after a period of time 940, such as twenty-four hours. If theplayer fails the second battery 945, the device 60 requires furtherdecision and/or observation 960 and elevation to physician 965, asexplained above. The further decision and/or observation 930, 960 stepsmay include a statistical evaluation of the results and any changestherein, such as reliable change index (RCI), to determine if the playershould see a physician or specialist. The concussion management team canutilize the RCI for additional guidance since it provides a criterionvalue above which an observed change in the player's condition and/orbattery results can be considered meaningful. If the player passes thesecond battery 945, further observation 975 is conducted with a formaldiagnosis 980 to be rendered. Following the diagnosis 980, which caninvolve a printed report, the player can be cleared for a return to play985 after the treatment steps are completed. Alternatively, additionaltest batteries may be performed after the observation 960 and anadditional period of time.

Accordingly, the system 10 and the method 100 include both on-field andoff-field aspects which are integrated and displayed on the signalingdevice 60, wherein the device 60 prompts the sideline personnel toperform tasks and records results for review and analysis in order totreat the player.

A return to play (RTP) protocol of the method 100 for a mild or moderategrade concussion is shown in FIG. 10. Typically, the RTP decision for aplayer is made after discussions among a number of parties, includingthe training staff, the team and personal physicians, any referralsources. These parties may define the concussion management team (CMT).In most situations, returning an athlete to participation should followa progression that begins once the athlete is completely symptom free.Preferably, evaluations are performed when the player is at rest andafter exertional maneuvers such as biking, jogging, sit-ups andpush-ups. Baseline measurements of neuropsychological (NP) testing andpostural stability can be used for comparison purposes.

An example of the RTP protocol for a player who experiences a mild ormoderate concussion is shown in FIG. 10. If the player reports nosymptoms of the concussion 1005 and such is confirmed with testing 1010,an exertional evaluation 1015 is conducted. If the player fails theevaluation 1015, further observation 1095 is conducted and a physicianmay be consulted 1100. Alternatively and after a first period of timesince the no symptom self-report 1005, a sport specific low-risk test1040 is conducted. If the player passes the evaluation 1015, furtherobservation 1095 is conducted and after a period of time 1035 since theno symptom self report 1005, the sport specific low-risk test 1040 isperformed. The test 1040 is sport dependent, and may include lining upin a three-point stance or catching and throwing a football. If theplayer fails the low-risk test 1040, further observation 1095 is againconducted and a physician may be consulted 1100. Alternatively, andafter a second period of time since the no symptom self report 1005, theplayer may undergo a cognitive/postural test battery 1065. If the playerpasses the low-risk test 1040, further observation 1055 is conducted andafter the second period of time 1060, a cognitive/postural battery 1065is performed. If the player fails the battery 1065, further observation1095 is again conducted and a physician may be consulted 1100. If theplayer passes the battery 1065, the concussion management team (CMT)consults and may agree to allow the player to return to play 1085 in thenext practice or game. Once the player has been cleared for a return toplay 1085, the “data card,” a file containing the relevant injury dataand information, is returned to the database 80 whereupon it becomesavailable for subsequent use by the sideline personnel. In this manner,a player's medical history is current when accessed by the sidelinepersonnel on the signaling device 60 to evaluate and treat a subsequentcondition.

To conduct the interactive protocol of the method 100, the signalingdevice 60 includes software wizards 95 that allows for the display of: ateam roster; the player history, including on-field incident recordings;the mini-battery 602; the sideline battery 640; and, the summary of eachbattery with color-coded pass/fail results. The controller 40 alsoincludes software 92 that provides a variety of displays forconsideration on the sideline or away from the playing field. Forexample, the displays on the wireless PDA 60 and the display 42 of thecontroller 40 can show a pictorial representation of a single impact andcumulative impacts to the player's head region. The display can alsoindicate a number of conditions, including which players by number arein communication with the system 10. As another example, the system 10can be configured to graphically display the cumulative impacts on agrid showing magnitude, duration, and location. The level and complexityof the displayed information can be customized based upon a number offactors, including the training and experience of the sidelinepersonnel, and the precise components and features of the system 10.

While the foregoing examples relate to an impact to the player's head,it is understood that the system 10 and method 100 can be applied toevaluate and treat the effects of an impact to a different body part.For example, components of the system 10 can be integrated into ashoulder pad assembly or knee pad assembly, wherein the method 100 isapplicable to evaluate and treat an impact to the torso region or theknee. Essentially, the system 10 and the method 100 can be configuredfor use with body parts other than the head and protective equipmentother than a helmet. In addition, the system 10 and method 100 can beconfigured to monitor other physiological parameters. For example, thesystem 10 can monitor the player's body temperature and the method 100can provide evaluation and treatment protocols when the player's bodytemperature exceeds a predefined threshold.

While the specific embodiments have been illustrated and described,numerous modifications come to mind without significantly departing fromthe spirit of the invention, and the scope of protection is only limitedby the scope of the accompanying Claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for monitoring a specific player fromamong a larger group of players engaged in a contact sport based uponmonitoring of an impact sustained by the specific player, the methodcomprising steps of: providing a system having: a helmet worn by thespecific player while playing the contact sport, the helmet having aprotective outer shell and an internal padding assembly, a portablesignaling device remotely located from the specific player, and, areporting unit removably positioned within the helmet worn by thespecific player, the reporting unit further having a sensor, a wirelesstransmitter and a control unit, the reporting unit further having aflexible configuration to enable removable positioning within theinternal padding assembly of the helmet, using the sensor to monitorimpacts sustained by the specific player while said player is playingthe contact sport; utilizing the control unit to compute impact resultsand compare said impact results to at least one impact-relatedthreshold; defining an alert event when an impact result surpasses apredetermined value of the impact-related threshold; sending an alertfrom the reporting unit to the signaling device upon occurrence of thealert event; and, providing an impact assessment protocol on thesignaling device for said specific player.
 2. The method of claim 1, thereporting unit further having an encoder that encodes the alert with aunique player identifier prior to sending the alert.
 3. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the monitoring step, the computing step, and thesending step all occur while said player is engaged in the contactsport.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of providing an impactassessment protocol on the signaling device utilizes an interactivesoftware program that prompts a user to perform certain tests toevaluate said player.
 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising thestep of providing a treatment protocol on the signaling device after theimpact assessment protocol is completed.
 6. The method of claim 5,wherein the treatment protocol provides a warning that said player isrestricted from further play.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein thesignaling device includes a user interface that, for each alert event,displays the nature of the alert, the specific player's identificationand the time of the alert event.